Perched above the shimmering waters of Southern California's largest reservoir, the Clayton A. Record Jr. Viewpoint at Diamond Valley Lake is one of Riverside County's most rewarding — and underrated — outdoor attractions. Whether you're a local resident, a weekend explorer, or a first-time visitor to the Hemet area, this scenic overlook delivers a perspective on the landscape that simply can't be matched from ground level. Best of all, it's completely free.
Getting There
The Clayton A. Record Jr. Viewpoint is located at the west dam of Diamond Valley Lake, just southwest of Hemet in Riverside County, California. Visitors enter off Winchester Road via Newport Road, pass through a security checkpoint, and follow a winding road up to a spacious parking area. The viewpoint is open Thursdays through Sundays from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and is closed on select holidays, including Easter, the Fourth of July, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day. No admission fee is required, making it one of the best free outdoor experiences in the Inland Empire.
The Hike Up
From the parking area, a well-maintained concrete path leads visitors to the summit. The trail is short but moderately steep, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. Those with mobility concerns will find the paved surface more manageable than a typical dirt trail, though the incline may be challenging for some. About halfway up, a shaded covered overlook with seating provides a natural rest stop and your first stunning glimpse of the lake below. Take a moment here — the view only gets better as you continue upward.
What You'll See at the Top
At the summit, a large decorative compass marks the high point of the viewpoint. From this spot, visitors are treated to a full 360-degree panorama that spans the broad blue expanse of Diamond Valley Lake, the adjacent hydroelectric power plant, rolling hillsides, and the broad sweep of the Domenigoni and Diamond valleys. On a clear day, the scenery stretches for miles in every direction, giving a dramatic sense of just how significant this reservoir is to the region. It's a photographer's dream and a calm refuge for anyone who simply wants to take in the natural beauty of inland Southern California.
A Name Worth Honoring
The viewpoint was named in honor of Clayton A. Record Jr., who served as the Eastern Municipal Water District's representative to the Metropolitan Water District of Southern California's Board of Directors from June 1999 to January 2001. His devotion to regional water policy and infrastructure helped shape the development of Diamond Valley Lake in a crucial phase in its construction. Naming this prominent landmark after him is a fitting tribute to a public servant whose legacy is literally embedded in the landscape.
Plan Your Visit
The Clayton A. Record Jr. Viewpoint complements perfectly with everything else Diamond Valley Lake has to offer — world-class fishing for largemouth bass and rainbow trout, hiking and equestrian trails, kayaking, sailing, and the nearby Western Science Center featuring exhibits on prehistoric animals discovered during the lake's construction.
Whether you're visiting for the views, the history, or a full day of outdoor recreation, the Clayton A. Record Jr. Viewpoint is an essential stop. It's a free, family-friendly destination that combines stunning natural scenery with a meaningful tribute to the water leaders who made Diamond Valley Lake possible. Add it to your itinerary — you won't regret it.
Clayton A Record Jr Viewpoint
| Tag Name | Data |
|---|---|
| Title | Clayton A Record Jr Viewpoint |
| Image Description | It was a nice day up at the Clayton A Record Jr Viewpoint. This is 8 vertical shots. |
| Keywords | 6x17, Clayton A Record Jr Viewpoint, dam, diamond valley lake, lake, mountains, panorama, pump, reflection, stitched panorama |
| Copyright | Copyright ExpertPhoto.com All Rights Reserved |
| Artist | ExpertPhoto.com |
| Make | Canon |
| Camera Model Name | Canon EOS R5 |
| Lens Model | RF85mm F2 MACRO IS STM |
| Focal Length | 85.00mm |
| Shutter Speed Value | 1/125 second |
| Aperture Value | 8.00 |
| ISO | 100 |
| Date/Time Original | Sunday December 21, 2025 03:39pm |
| City | Hemet |
| State | California |
| Country | United States |
| GPS Altitude | 560 meters (1837.3 feet) above sea level |
| GPS Latitude | 33.6829315516167 |
| GPS Longitude | -117.066964636667 |
| Map | Google Map Link |